Lightweight Plug-In Hybrid Concept Car - GreenHybrid

Timetrvlr · #1 (**permalink**) 02-07-2008, 06:52 PM

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Toyota 1/X Plug-In Concept Makes North American Debut At 2008 Chicago Auto Show

6 February 2008

Toyota brought its 1/X (pronounced “one-Xth”) plug-in hybrid concept vehicle to 2008 Chicago Auto Show (6-17 February) for its North American debut. The Toyota 1/X concept made its world debut at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show.

Comparison of 1/X Concept and Prius Specifications 1/X Concept vs Prius
Total length (inches) 153.5 vs 175.0
Width (inches) 63.8 vs 67.9
Height (inches) 55.5 vs 58.1
Wheelbase (inches) 102.4 vs 106.3
Curb weight (lbs) 926 vs 2,890
Seating capacity 4 vs 5
Engine displacement 500 cc vs 1,497 cc
Battery chemistry Li-ion NiMH

The hybrid powertrain in the ultra-lightweight 1/X combines a home-rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack with a 500cc flexible-fuel engine in a system that is 1/4th of the total weight of the Prius powertrain. The result is a vehicle with the possibility of traveling more than 600 miles on a small four-gallon tank of fuel and achieving acceleration performance equivalent to that of the Prius.

The 1/X features an aerodynamic ultra-lightweight design that maintains the interior space of the Toyota Prius hybrid and is approximately one-third the weight of the Prius. Its 926-pound curb weight is partially achieved through the use of a light but very strong carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) throughout the body frame.

The aerodynamic shape of the 1/X and unique cabin design result in smaller pillars, allowing passengers more visibility and helping to create a greater sense of openness and freedom with its outer surroundings for driver and passengers. The CFRP material is lighter and stronger than traditional metals, creating a shock-absorbing like structure with cross-sections that help absorb energy during an impact.

The 1/X roof is produced from a bio-plastic made from environmentally-responsible material derived from kenaf and ramie plants. The result is a roof that improves heat insulation, emits less carbon dioxide, increases the amount of light entering the cabin, and reducing noise.
On the inside, the 1/X employs four ultra-lightweight seats made of polyester fiber that is knitted three-dimensionally for added comfort. The material functions like a spring or damper that helps create a cushion-like feel for all occupants.

From Green Car Congress

A four-gallon tank? 600 miles on a tank? Sounds like a hyper-miler!

gpsman1 · #2 (**permalink**) 02-10-2008, 03:26 PM

For that kind of weight, you get no features like radio, spare tire, A/C or by the looks of it, doors! Oh wait, that's that built-in A/C!

chris_h · #3 (**permalink**) 02-14-2008, 04:55 PM

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The result is a roof that improves heat insulation, emits less carbon dioxide, increases the amount of light entering the cabin, and reducing noise.

Say what? Since when does the roof of a car emit carbon dioxide? Am I missing something here?

gpsman1 · #4 (**permalink**) 02-14-2008, 07:03 PM

Semantics.

The manufacturing of this frame & body emits less carbon dioxide than manufactuing a traditional car.